Going through a divorce is a life-changing event. Parting from someone you intended to spend the rest of your life with is difficult, but not impossible. Instead of letting your divorce consume and define you, take control by moving forward and trying out new hobbies.

After you have allowed yourself time to grieve and heal, you may find yourself searching for things to do to fill your newly unoccupied hours. Any of these hobbies could be a great fit.

Meditation

Part of becoming a newly single is finding out who you are without your significant other. Try your hand at meditation.

Create a quiet space at home where you can retreat for a block of time to clear your mind and refocus your energy. It should be a calm and comfortable environment, free of distractions. Good Zen Life offers some helpful tips for beginners.

Boating

Much like meditation, the open water can offer a temporary escape to cleanse your mind and soul but also offers an opportunity for social interaction. If you have kids, it can be a great teaching and bonding experience, or it can be a fun adventure with a few good friends.

To get your start navigating the seas, you will need a boating license and vessel. The type of boat you get, whether renting or purchasing, will depend on your purpose. If you feel the need for speed and adventure, look at some speed boats. A pontoon or deck boat will lend itself to a more social occasion, and sailboats give you a quiet escape while requiring a bit more skill in operations.

Sports Leagues

Most cities offer a variety of recreational sports leagues for adults. Some options to consider are sand volleyball, softball, basketball and hockey.

Think back to your childhood. What sports did you enjoy playing? What sports do you enjoy watching now? Don’t be afraid to try new things.

Not only will you get a chance to get out and be active, but also to mingle and make new friends. And again, if you have children, you can take them to games or practice together for some recreational bonding.

Camping & Hiking

The great outdoors is calling. Aside from some common sense and trail guides, taking up hiking and camping doesn’t require much training or experience. Just grab a tent, your hiking boots and a map or two, and you are ready to go.

Again, with friends, children or alone, this outdoor activity can be a great way to reconnect and rediscover who you are and what you want. Plus, fresh air is good for both the body and soul.

Geocaching

Were you a hide-and-seek pro as a kid? Still looking for a little adventure?

Geocaching is the adult version of childhood favorite games and a fairly easy one to play. People around the world hide objects or containers in a variety of locations and post the coordinates online.

Seekers then go out with GPS devices to find these thoughtfully hidden “treasures.” It’s a fun way to get out of the house and explore different parts of your town.